Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Department of Public Works

Traffic Engineering Division

TO:	Charles Soules, Director of Public Works
FROM:	David Woosley, Transportation/Traffic Engineer
CC:	David Cronin, City Engineer
Date:	25 November 2013
RE:	3 December 2013 City Commission Agenda Item Vermont Street Traffic Calming

Background

On November 4, 2013, the Traffic Safety Commission heard a request for TRAFFIC CALMING on Vermont Street between 21^st Street & 23^rd Street. The brick portion of Vermont Street between 21^st Street & 22^nd Street is scheduled to be re-built in 2014 and comments received at neighborhood meetings showed a concern for the need for TRAFFIC CALMING once the project is completed. Traffic data collected October 1-2 for a 24-hour period, found that 60% of the northbound traffic during the afternoon peak hour consisted of cut-through traffic.

Traffic Safety Commission Action

At the Traffic Safety Commission meeting, three (3) members of the public addressed the Commission in support of the request; no one spoke in opposition. It was noted that the current brick street is so rough, that vehicles could not exceed the speed limit; however, with the reconstruction it would provide a straight, smooth street for two (2) blocks. In addition, there are no sidewalks between 22^nd Street & 23^rd Street and a lot of people walk in the neighborhood. A motion to recommend TRAFFIC CALMING on Vermont Street between 21^st Street & 23^rd Street carried, 8-0. Although there are no funds specifically specified for traffic calming, any devices approved by the neighborhood can be incorporated in the plans for the brick reconstruction next year.

Action Request

It is recommended that the City Commission concur with the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Commission, if appropriate.